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OAK destination photo
HNL destination photo

OAKHNL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

While both sides offer stunning views of the California coast and Hawaii, the Left Side is superior for the iconic approach into Honolulu, featuring Diamond Head and Waikiki.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌉

San Francisco Bay

Aerial views of the Bay Bridge and the South Bay salt ponds immediately after takeoff from OAK.

🌊

Pacific Horizon

A vast, uninterrupted view of the deep blue North Pacific during the 5-hour oceanic crossing.

🌋

Diamond Head

The most famous landmark in Hawaii, visible as the plane aligns for its final approach into HNL.

🏖️

Waikiki Beach

The turquoise waters and high-rise skyline of Honolulu's most famous beach strip.

🚢

Honolulu Harbor

Views of the industrial port and the Aloha Tower just moments before touchdown.

Sit on the left for the 'postcard' arrival into Hawaii. Morning flights are ideal to avoid the direct southern sun glare. During winter months, keep an eye out for whale spouts in the Maunalua Bay area as you descend toward the island.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

San Francisco Skyline

Excellent views of downtown San Francisco and the Salesforce Tower shortly after departure.

🌁

Golden Gate Bridge

If the flight path takes a northern exit, the iconic orange bridge is visible to the right.

🏝️

Molokai and Lanai

On clear days, the neighboring islands can be seen in the distance during the initial descent.

⚓

Pearl Harbor

A direct view of the USS Arizona Memorial and Ford Island as the plane lands at HNL.

⛰️

Ko'olau Mountains

The lush, jagged green ridges of Oahu's windward side visible during the island arrival.

The right side is best for the departure phase out of the Bay Area. For the arrival into HNL, this side provides the best view of Pearl Harbor. Choose this side on evening flights for spectacular sunset views over the Pacific Ocean.

Top Activities in Honolulu
Route Information

Distance: 3,873 km (2,407 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 33 min

Departure: OAK (37.721298, -122.221001)

Arrival: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)

Route Type: Domestic

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